News Release

August 4, 2008
For immediate release

 Canada is helping in the global response to HIV/AIDS

Mexico City, Mexico – The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and the Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, today announced, on behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, Canada’s commitment of $45 million towards projects responding to HIV/AIDS in Africa.

“Canada is committed to working with the global community to effectively respond to HIV/AIDS,” said Minister Clement.  “Our support is achieving results and having a life-saving impact on people around the world.  For people living with HIV/AIDS, these funds will go towards programs that help them to live longer and better lives. For those at risk of infection, this investment will help to provide the education and prevention tools needed to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS.”

Over the past three years, Canada's Government, through the Canadian International Development Agency, has invested approximately $515 million internationally to fight HIV/AIDS in developing countries.  This $45 million commitment will build on this support and lend help towards initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the impact of HIV/AIDS is most felt.

“Canada’s investments in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care initiatives are an integral part of helping to improve the health of the world’s poor,” said Minister Oda. "As part of a global effort to combat HIV/AIDS, our government will continue its significant support to programs that are well-coordinated, effective and accountable for outcomes that are making a difference.”

The Government of Canada is committed to a comprehensive, long-term approach in the global fight against HIV/AIDS that recognizes the importance of promoting and protecting human rights. Canada’s programs put a particular emphasis on advancing effective evidence-based HIV prevention; promoting gender equality and empowering women to address the burden of HIV/AIDS on women and girls; strengthening health systems in developing countries to ensure access to essential HIV/AIDS treatment and support; and promoting the rights of children and protecting children infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. 

Minister Clement made this announcement during the XVII International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2008) in Mexico City. As an active player in global efforts to address HIV/AIDS, Canada is pleased to be a partner of the XVII International AIDS Conference taking place in Mexico City in August 2008.

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Media Relations
Public Health Agency of Canada
Telephone: 613-948-7970

Media Relations
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca